Release Date Review: Imaginable by J. Meyers

Imaginable

Author: J. Meyers

Publication Date: April 16th, 2013

Publisher: Self Published

Genre: YA/Paranormal/Fantasy

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Synopsis:

Twins Sera and Luke Raine’s unusual abilities are growing. Sera is healing vampires now, making them human again. And, at times, Luke can actually change the future he Sees. But Sera’s healing has dangerous consequences, and though Luke is altering the outcome of more visions, he can’t control them yet. Now Sera is in danger as the dark creatures of the Realm seek to use her. As Luke struggles to master his gift in order to save his sister, he discovers even more about his powers. And what he learns just may put him in greater danger than Sera has ever been.

My Thoughts: I am so excited to be reviewing this book on it's release date! Being part of the first crowd to spread the good word about this exciting and awesome book is well..exciting and awesome hah!

This book is the sequel to  Intangible which I read and reviewed last year. You can find my review here. I was very happy to hear from J. Meyers again concerning the release of her new book. I really enjoyed Intangible and I've been waiting impatiently to see what would happen next with Luke and Sera, the twins that I love so much.

Seriously, these two characters are just phenomenal. They have got to be the purest, most good at heart people around. They would do anything they could to help anyone that needed it, no matter what. They are always so immensely kind and considerate and generous. I also love them for their lovely relationship. They have the best sibling relationship I've ever encountered while reading. Their connection with each other and love for each other is unrivaled. There is simply nothing more important to them then each other. I found it beautiful and inspiring. And it's so nice to see the importance placed on family instead of the super hot  and mysterious girl or guy next door.

That being said, Luke and Sera are both romantically attached to someone. I was sitting here on the sidelines the whole time just cheering them on in every department possible. Cheering them on in their battles against their dark enemies, in the discovery and growth of their abilities, in their determination to do the right thing, in their bold and daring romantic advances, not to mention their survival.

In Intangible we seen Luke really struggle with his ability to see the future. Whether he sees it as something good or bad and also  to me it seemed he didn't really have any pride in what he could do. To him Sera was always the more powerful and important one. But in Imaginable we get to see Luke grow, big time! As he is fighting with all his might to protect his sister from those who would use her powers for evil he finds within himself way more power than he ever thought he had. As it turns out, Luke has  abilities that are astounding and unbelievably powerful.  I was jumping for joy within myself as he discovered himself and his confidence in what he can do.

If only he didn't take such dire consequences to find his strengths. Sera just can not catch a break in this story. She is constantly in the clutches of evil , being tortured with her worst imaginable nightmares. Every one wants to get their hands on Sera's healing abilities, abilities she doesn't even know the full extent of yet. And they are willing to do whatever dark and terrible deeds necessary to get what they want. Which is very unfortunate for Sera as she endures their torture and manipulation.

Luckily they have incredible and fearless friends, all with unique abilities of their own, because they all face some pretty terrifying foes. The bad guys in this story are seriously scary and being anywhere near them is definitely the last place I would want to be. But that doesn't stop any of them from running headfirst into the worst of it to help and save Sera. But they all face things that none of them are prepared for and  are more likely to join Sera in her torture than help her escape.

Imaginable was a perfect sequel.With even more adventure, fantastic character growth and brand new enemies. I am seriously enjoying this series and hoping there will be more to come! I want to see just how amazing Luke and Sera will become as their abilities continue to grow. And I want to see the good side of the prophecy fulfilled.  I would definitely recommend this series to any and all. It's a great, light, adventurous read with really unique characters. Thanks to J. Meyers for sharing this with me so I could help to share it with all of you.

Review: Intuition by J. Meyers

Intuition

Author: J.M Meyers

Publication Date: October 17th, 2011

Publisher: Self-Published

Genre: YA/Short-Story/Paranormal

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Synopsis:

Luke and his twin sister Sera have unusual abilities. Hers is a gift—she can heal with a touch of her hand. His is a curse—he can see the future but he can’t do anything about it. On a hike up the mountain, Luke has a vision unlike any other—one that leaves him terrified. Knowing that it will come true—and that he must do everything in his power to stop it—leaves his own future uncertain.

My Thoughts: This short story picks up shortly after the beginning of where Intangible starts. It's a fun little side story of a small event we missed out on during Intangible. This short story is a perfect little teaser, if you are thinking that intangible sounds like something you want to read, I recommend you read this to get a small sample of what to expect.

I say small sample, because it doesn't elude to any of the even more exciting things you will find when reading Intangible. But you will get a nice taste of the characters Sera and Luke, both whom I adore, and a slight idea of what the main story is about. Also,  I say small sample, because this is a very short story. I read it in about 5-10 minutes tops. There's no excuse not to give this a try, it's short, fun, an awesome teaser and best of all, it's free! You can find links to get your copy on Meyer's blog Here. And, if your interested on reading my review on Intangible you can read that Here. We've also got a great Interview we did with Meyers Here.

So head on over and get your copy. :) You'll definitely want to know what happens next!

Author Interview: J. Meyers

I was recently asked to read and review a really great book by J. Meyers. I am so very glad that I was asked because I got to read the great story that is Intangible!

 You can check out my 4Hoot review here.

I liked the book so much that I asked Meyers if she would be interested in doing an interview so we could learn more about her, her book, and future books. She very kindly agreed, and we are so very thankful!

I would like to extend a great big thank you to J. Meyers for everything! I had so much fun reading your book, and getting to know more about you. I can't wait to read your future works!


1.We are always eager to know more about the person behind the words, tell us a bit about yourself and where readers can go if they want to learn even more about you.
I have always wanted to make my living as an artist, some way or another, so at different times during the last twenty years I've worked as a professional actor, singer, portrait artist, and writer. It's in my blood to create, though I'm somewhat shocked that I've ended up writing. I never would have dreamed that'd I'd be doing this. And yet here I am. :-)

(Readers can visit me www.jmeyersbooks.com. I love visitors!)

2. What was your favorite part in your book Intangible?
I love the bond between Sera and Luke. I did a bunch of research about twins to get a feel for how they interact with each other (how it's similar or different from non-twins) and how that amazing bond they share manifests itself in little ways.
Meghan: I couldn't agree more. I absolutely love the bond you created between Sera and Luke. The affection and friendship they share is just wonderful! The research you did definitely paid off :)

3. Who would you say is your favorite character from Intangible, and why?
Don't make me choose just one! (That's like making me choose a favorite child.) Honestly, I love them all, and I'm not sure that I have a favorite. But I will tell you that I do love Marc. I didn't intend to. I actually started out thinking he was just going to be a bad guy all around. But he wasn't. He was smart, funny, and witty. And tortured. He came with not the best intentions, but it was out of desperation. And he left because he was traumatized. (I hope he comes back, though I'm not sure what will happen if he does.)
Meghan: I would love to see Marc come back. Mostly because I feel he owes Sera a massive apology for things said.

4. Are any of the characters in the story based on people you know personally?
Not really. There are parts of me and people I know mixed up into all the characters, but no one character is based on one person. They're all very imaginary.


5. If you could have dinner with one character from your book, who would you choose?
Jonas. Because he's got to have some seriously amazing stories to tell.

6. Are you working on anything new? What can we expect to see from you in the future?
I'm just getting started on book two, and have high (possibly unrealistic) hopes that it will be out by the end of the year.
Meghan: That is very exciting! I hope you will think of me when it's released ;).


7. Have you always wanted to be a writer? If not, what happened to make you decide to start writing?
Nope. I hated writing when I was in high school and college. Loved words--their meanings, origins, and word play--but hated writing. I began writing after I started freelancing for an educational texts publisher. I'd started out with just inputting changes to the manuscript on computer, but then moved up to proofing, copyediting, and eventually writing. It was a slow transition, and I didn't really think of myself as a writer at that point. Once I started writing books (I co-authored a couple of parenting books before writing Intangible), I finally realized I was a writer.



8. Aside from writing, what other things do you enjoy doing?
I read a lot when I'm not writing (and sometimes when I am). I have four kids who are the most amazing people I know and we're an unschooling family, so we spend our days learning, exploring, and playing. I also love to bake (a little *too* much), knit, sew, and go for hikes or walks with my kids.
Meghan: It sounds like you have a wonderful family, and that you share a great life together! You must feel very lucky.



9. What is it like for you, when reading reviews of your book? How do you react to positive and/or negative reviews?
I've been amazed at the lovely things people have said about the book. Overwhelmed really. And I actually haven't gotten any negative reviews yet (I have no doubt they'll come), but my big plan is to not read them. I know I'll take it personally and get upset, and I don't really want to do that. But I do feel so lucky and blessed that so far the response has been really positive.

10.What is the most rewarding experience you've had since your book was released?
Readers emailing me to tell me how much they enjoyed the book, and having some readers say they couldn't put the book down. I had no idea it would be that kind of book for some people (but then, I read it at least 10 times, so it was *very* put-downable near the end for me!).



11. What is your all-time favorite book, or a book that you think everyone should read?
I don't think I have an all-time favorite anymore--I've read some really amazing books in the last couple of years. But I'd have to say that Laini Taylor's Dreamdark books, Blackbringer and Silksinger, are a must-read. She creates the most incredible world in those books--a living, breathing world--and fantasically unique characters.
Meghan: I will definitely have to look into those and possibly add them to my TBR.



12. What is your favorite genre of books? Do you stick to mainly one, or branch out?
I'm so in love with YA and MG books, and have been for several years, so mostly what I read is within those two genres. Occasionally I read some non-fiction (because I'm on a continuous quest to be a better parent, or researching). And once in a great while I pick up adult fiction, but honestly, I just don't find it as well written or creative as YA and MG. (I've also found that now that I'm writing I have a very low tolerace for less-than-stellar books--in part because I have limited time to read now, so I can't waste my time suffering through some book I'm not liking just to finish it, and in part because I get irritated much more quickly by some styles or poor writing.)
 Meghan:  I know what you mean about limited time and trying to spend it reading things you enjoy. I have 3 kids between the ages 2 and 5 haha. And I absolutely agree on the creativity of YA, I'm a huge fan of Paranormal and Fantasy.


13. Is there an upcoming release you are really looking forward to right now?
Oh my goodness, YES. Bitterblue by Kristin Cashore. I. can't. wait. (Can I tell you how happy I am that it's well over 500 pages long? Over 500 pages of Kristin Cashore's fabulous writing and unique world? So excited!)


14. Who is your favorite Author? 
I have several: Laini Taylor, Frannie Billinsgley, Kristin Cashore, Megan Whalen Turner, Aidan Chambers. (That's not all, but I'm stopping there.)
Meghan: Some more Authors I will have to take a peek at :) Thanks for sharing!



15. Where do you pull your inspiration from when writing?
Music & books. Music will sometimes give me story/plot ideas or inspire a mood/feeling for a character. And I read, read, read to be inspired (and learn how) to write better.



16. If you could join forces with any Author, alive or dead, to write a book, Who would you pick?
Yikes! I'm too much of a loner, so I don't think I'd want to write a novel with anyone and have to maybe compromise on story or style issues.


17. Do you prefer print or e-books?
Print. No contest. I love the feel of a book, turning the pages, the look of the words on the page, studying the art inside (if there is any) and on the cover.
Meghan: I agree 100%! I just love print books so much. Especially their smell and the feeling of pages in your hands, it's not uncommon to catch me sniffing books hehe.


18. What advice would you give to the aspiring writers out there? 
Read! Read a lot!! And write the kind of book you'd want to read (even if it's not currently trendy).


Thank you again for everything, it's been a real pleasure working with you and I hope to hear from you again in the future!
Thank you so much, Meghan! I've loved working with you, as well. It's been fun!

Review: Intangible by J. Meyers

Intangible

Author: J.M Meyers

Publication Date: January 31st, 2012

Publisher: Self-Published

Genre: YA/Fantasy/Paranormal

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Synopsis:

Twins Sera and Luke Raine have a well-kept secret—she heals with a touch of her hand, he sees the future. All their lives they’ve helped those in need on the sly. They’ve always thought of their abilities as being a gift. Then Luke has a vision that Sera is killed. That gift they’ve always cherished begins to feel an awful lot like a curse. Because the thing about Luke’s ability? He’s always right. And he can’t do anything about it.

My Thoughts: This book was really great! I was asked to review this by the Author and I didn't hesitate for a second. I was drawn in by the cover, which I think is really beautiful. Then the summary really grabbed my attention, so I am very thankful to the Author, J. Meyers,  for allowing me to read and review this great book :).

The story is about twins named Sera and Luke who, for as long as they can remember, have had these special abilities. Sera's ability is that she can heal people just by touching them. Not just physical injuries, but emotional strain and stress as well. The downside to her ability is that she can't heal herself. Luke's ability is that he can see the future, he gets spontaneous visions. Sometimes they are complete, other times they come in slowly and in fragments. The downside to his ability is that he can't stop what he sees happening from actually coming true. Sera definitely sees her ability as a great gift, and she uses it for the greater good, but secretly of course. Luke however, I think he a lot of the times regrets having his ability. It seems he sees a lot of things he wish he hadn't seen, since there is nothing he can do about it.

Luke and Sera have done their absolute best at keeping their abilities a secret. After one time that Sera decided to share her abilities with someone she thought would be happy, despite Luke's warnings that that person would not be happy, they never shared their secret with a single soul ever again. They have a couple close friends, and one friend in particular that they literally spend all of their time with, her name is Fey. They allow themselves these chosen friends, but don't let anyone else in because they don't want to lie to any more people. They are so good and pure! These two are the sweetest, most caring, honest, friendly, loving, nicest people ever! And they share this bond that I am honestly quite jealous of. I wish I had a sibling that I was even slightly as close to as they are to each other. The sibling relationship Meyers created for them is just perfect. They have such amazing camaraderie, and the way they tease each other had me giggling a couple times :).

So Sera and Luke have spent their entire lives guarding their secret. But as the story unfolds we find out that almost everyone around them is keeping a pretty big secret themselves. Their own mother is holding something back from them, their best friend has a great big secret of her own, and when Sera finally lets someone else in he brings a big one with him as well! Sera and Luke end up being overwhelmed with new information that blows their world wide open! All these things that were supposed to be myth, are actually real, and they are smack in the middle of it all. Even though they think no one knows what they are capable of, in actuality, a lot of people know. They are the children of prophecy, and the entire paranormal world, or 'The Realm' as it's referred to in this book, has been waiting for them. The prophecy says they will either be the saviors or the destruction of the realm. Some beings are not willing to risk the second option. They just want them found and extinguished whether they are good or evil.

I really enjoyed the good Vs. evil in this book. There's Sera and Luke, who are obviously the good side. Then there's a couple shady characters who seem to waver between good and bad, and aren't even sure themselves which side they are going to end up on. It was so exciting to see which decisions they would make, and who's side they would ultimately pick. Though even in the end, they are still not completely sworn to one allegiance. Then their is Lillith,  she is 300% evil. I could feel her dominating, eerie, loathsome presence. She is the mother of all vampires, and she wants Luke and Sera destroyed as soon as possible, because of the chance that they could be the ruin of all vampires. Even after so much attempted persuasion that they would not fulfill the dark side of the prophecy she still demands their death.

At the beginning of the book, Luke sees a vision of his sister Sera dying. So the story essentially revolves around him trying to find a way to stop this from coming true, even though he knows he can't actually change the future. Meanwhile legions of evil creatures are attempting to snuff both of them out. Will their allies be able to protect them from those who wish them dead? Will Luke find a way to alter the future and save his sister's life? How will Sera and Luke react to learning that everything they thought they knew, is not even close to what it seems? You gotta read this book to find out! I definitely recommend that you do. It was a perfect mixture of light and dark hearted-ness. A wonderful good Vs. evil story. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I'm positive that you will to! It was nice to read a YA paranormal that revolved around love for your friends and family instead of that super hot guy next door haha :). Add this one to your TBR!